This is a low budget organization that accomplishes a lot. Yes, a large chunk of the budget is the director's salary but at a total of less than $35,000 a year that's a bargain. It's not some fat cat drawing six figures. That's $35,000 total including whatever benefits Keith may or may not receive. Just a middling wage in my opinion.

The work of Swan View Coalition is research, education, and involvement in forest planning and sometimes lawsuits. That's what the director does. You won't find a volunteer who could afford to donate 2,000 hours each year and put their neck on the line for this cause like Keith does.

Normally I would not give to a charity, either, that spends most of its money on the director's salary. But in this case, donors are pooling their money to pay for an advocate to preserve our natural places and it's money well spent. And it's obvious from their financial statements that it's money frugally spent.

I donate every year. This organization invests in hard work by people, not in costly office overhead and needless travel accounts. The proof of the pudding is in reading the newsletters posted on the organization's web site. Incredible accomplishments for a low-budget outfit!

I was interested in this organization when I heard about their mission, but very disappointed to find out they spend 86% of donations in direct salary to the founder. I will not contribute to organizations like this.